Sunday, September 12, 2010

The Major Differences Between Cable and DSL Internet

There are many advantages to using a high-speed connection. Broadband allows users to use Voice over the Internet. It also makes telemedicine possible where patients can confer online with doctors. Other advantages are learning opportunities such as enrolling in university courses or other educational programs. Broadband helps in using many reference resources, such as library and museum data bases. The most popular advantage to using broadband is the capability to download and view videos and photos much faster and easier.

DSL vs. Cable

Two of the more popular high speed Internet connections are DSL and cable. Customers using either of these types of connections require either a telephone or television cable provider.

The U.S. government describes DSL as, "a wireline transmission technology that transmits data faster over traditional copper telephone lines already installed to homes and businesses." Using DSL will depend on the distance from your home or business to the closet telephone company facility.

The government also describes a cable modem service as, "External devices that have two connections, one to the cable wall outlet and the other to a computer." You can watch television and surf the web at the same time.

Connection Speed

The speed of DSL depends on the distance you live from your service provider's central office. The further you live from their office the slower your connection speed will be. Basic DSL Internet speeds range from 768 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps. DSL speeds will remain the same no matter how many people are logged on and using the Internet.

Cable companies usually have a higher speed than DSL because they are upgrading their networks to fiber optics. In many areas of the country, cable high speed beats DSL. Basic Cable Internet Speeds range from 3 Mbps to 7 Mbps. (Although, it should be mentioned that many telephone companies are upgrading to fiber optics, as well.) Cable companies do not rely on ISP's hubs, so that means connection speeds do not drop off the further you live from the hub as with DSL. Cable speeds vary by the number of users in your local area. If many people in your neighborhood are online, then your speed will be slower.

Availability

Both connections are reliable, but the availability is different. DSL is not available in all areas. Mostly, urban areas are able to receive DSL. However, cable is much different. If you can receive cable television then you can receive cable internet connection.

Security

Both services keep your computer plugged into the Internet all the time. This mean you are more susceptible to computer viruses. It is recommended all high-speed Internet users purchase an Anti-virus to protect their computer.

Conclusion

DSL and cable high-speed connections allow users a faster stream while online. Depending on where you live and what your needs are will factor in choosing your ISP.

Scott Lindsay is a web developer and entrepreneur. He is the founder of HighPowerSites and many other web projects. Now you can Make A Business Website or Build Your Own Website incredibly fast at HighPowerSites.com.